Jack Dempsey (Rocio octofasciata) - Central American Cichlid
Care level: Easy
Max Size: 25cm
Temp: 22-28°C
PH: 7-8
Approximate purchase size: 5-6cm
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Non-Community
Jack Dempsey is a large aggressive species of cichlid from Central America. It is a beautiful fish known for its bright speckles of irridescent blue scales. Like most Central American Cichlids, this fish will grow to a substantial size of 25cm and needs a large aquarium of at least 5ft. The substrate should be sand as these fish like to dig and the decor should be plentiful to provide the fish with visual barriers and hiding places, especially if more than one specimen is to be kept in the aquarium. Plants can be added, but need to be robust species like Anubias and Java Fern as Jack Dempseys are known for being rough with plants. Filtration needs to be able to handle the heavy bioload of such a large fish and flow should be moderate. Frequent partial water changes are highly recommended as these fish are very sensitive to poor water quality and their diet can lead to increased nitrate levels.
Like most Central American Cichllid, Rocio octofasciata are territorially aggressive and a bonded pair will not tolerate others of their kind or similar species in their aquarium. For that reason, we recommend housing them with other larger species of fish that aren't from the Cichlid family, such as Silver Dollars, Raphael Catfish, Silver Sharks and others. They should not be kept in general communities and will eat anything that's small enough to fit in their mouth.
Food can be offered in the form of sinking cichlid pellets, as well as fresh or frozen fish foods such as mysis, krill, cockle and River Shrimp.
If you have any questions about this snail and whether it's suitable for your aquarium, please contact us and a member of our friendly tropical team will be more than happy to answer all of your questions.
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